Brighton, a vibrant and eclectic city on the south coast of England, is known for its bohemian atmosphere, stunning seaside views, and an incredibly diverse food scene. On my recent trip to this bustling coastal town, I set out to explore six exceptional dining spots, each offering unique flavors and experiences.
1. The Salt Room
Location: 106 King’s Rd, Brighton BN1 2FU
The Salt Room, located along Brighton’s iconic seafront, is celebrated for its contemporary seafood dishes and stunning views of the West Pier ruins.
Special Offers and Prices
The Salt Room offers a great value pre-theatre menu priced at £25 for two courses or £30 for three courses. Their regular menu items range from £15 to £30 for mains.
My Experience
I opted for the pre-theatre menu and started with their signature charred mackerel, served with pickled cucumber, horseradish, and dill. The mackerel was perfectly cooked, with a smoky char complementing the tangy pickles. For the main course, I had the whole roasted plaice with brown shrimp butter and samphire. The fish was succulent, with the rich butter sauce enhancing its natural flavors. For dessert, I couldn’t resist the burnt honey tart with elderflower sorbet, a delightful blend of sweet and floral notes.
Recommendation Index: 5/5
The Salt Room is a must-visit for seafood lovers looking to enjoy high-quality dishes with a view.
Nearby Attractions
After dining, I took a leisurely walk along Brighton Beach, marveling at the skeletal remains of the West Pier and the vibrant atmosphere of the Brighton Palace Pier just a short stroll away.
2. 64 Degrees
Location: 53 Meeting House Ln, Brighton BN1 1HB
64 Degrees is a small, intimate restaurant located in Brighton’s bustling Lanes, known for its innovative small plates and open kitchen concept.
Special Offers and Prices
Dishes at 64 Degrees are designed to be shared, with prices ranging from £7 to £15 per plate. They also offer a tasting menu for around £45 per person.
My Experience
I chose a selection of small plates, starting with the duck liver parfait served with apple and gingerbread. The parfait was smooth and rich, beautifully balanced by the sweetness of the apple and the spice of the gingerbread. Next, I enjoyed the grilled octopus with chorizo and romesco, where the tender octopus paired perfectly with the smoky, spicy sausage. The standout dish for me was the beef short rib with smoked potato and black garlic, a melt-in-the-mouth experience with deep, complex flavors.
Recommendation Index: 4.5/5
64 Degrees offers a creative and dynamic dining experience, perfect for food enthusiasts who love trying new and exciting dishes.
Nearby Attractions
The restaurant’s location in the heart of The Lanes made it easy to explore the myriad of quirky shops and historic streets, as well as the nearby Royal Pavilion, an architectural marvel with its exotic design.
3. The Chilli Pickle
Location: 17 Jubilee St, Brighton BN1 1GE
The Chilli Pickle is an award-winning Indian restaurant located in the North Laine area, known for its vibrant and flavorful dishes.
Special Offers and Prices
They offer a great value lunch thali for around £15, while main dishes on the dinner menu range from £10 to £20. They also have a takeaway option which is slightly cheaper.
My Experience
I visited for lunch and ordered the lamb rogan josh thali, which included small portions of the main dish along with rice, naan, pickles, salad, and a sweet treat. The lamb was tender and aromatic, with a rich, spicy sauce that was just the right level of heat for my taste. The accompaniments provided a wonderful variety of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Recommendation Index: 4.5/5
The Chilli Pickle is a fantastic spot for those craving authentic and high-quality Indian cuisine in a lively setting.
Nearby Attractions
Post-lunch, I explored the North Laine area, known for its colorful street art, independent shops, and the Brighton Toy and Model Museum, which offers a nostalgic glimpse into the past.
4. Terre à Terre
Location: 71 East St, Brighton BN1 1HQ
Terre à Terre is a renowned vegetarian restaurant located near Brighton’s seafront, offering imaginative and beautifully presented dishes that appeal to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Special Offers and Prices
Their menu features a range of small plates and mains, with prices from £8 to £18. They also offer a lunch special that includes a starter and main for £15.
My Experience
I opted for the tapas selection to sample a variety of their offerings. The “Better Batter and Lemony Yemeni Relish” was a standout, with tempura-fried halloumi served with a zesty lemon sauce. Another highlight was the “Korean Fried Cauliflower,” which was crispy, spicy, and utterly delicious. For dessert, I enjoyed the “Churrosimo,” crispy churros served with a rich chocolate sauce and a refreshing fruit compote.
Recommendation Index: 5/5
Terre à Terre is a culinary gem that showcases the creativity and depth of vegetarian cuisine.
Nearby Attractions
After my meal, I visited the nearby Brighton Fishing Museum, which offers insights into the city’s maritime heritage, and then took a leisurely walk along the Brighton Palace Pier.
5. The Coal Shed
Location: 8 Boyce’s St, Brighton BN1 1AN
The Coal Shed, located in the heart of Brighton, is a modern steakhouse known for its high-quality meats and grilled dishes.
Special Offers and Prices
The Coal Shed offers a great value express lunch menu with two courses for £15. Their dinner mains range from £15 to £30, with a focus on steaks and grilled seafood.
My Experience
I started with the charcoal-roasted scallops, which were tender and beautifully presented with a smoked paprika butter. For the main course, I indulged in the 35-day dry-aged ribeye steak, cooked to perfection and served with triple-cooked chips and a side of béarnaise sauce. The meat was incredibly flavorful and juicy, making it one of the best steaks I’ve ever had. For dessert, I enjoyed a classic crème brûlée, which was creamy and rich with a perfectly caramelized top.
Recommendation Index: 4.5/5
The Coal Shed is a top choice for meat lovers looking to enjoy expertly prepared steaks in a sophisticated setting.
Nearby Attractions
After dining, I explored the nearby Churchill Square Shopping Centre for some retail therapy and then headed towards the British Airways i360, a 162-meter observation tower offering stunning views of the city and coastline.
6. Food for Friends
Location: 17-18 Prince Albert St, Brighton BN1 1HF
Food for Friends is a beloved vegetarian restaurant located in the historic South Lanes, known for its creative and globally inspired dishes.
Special Offers and Prices
Their menu features a range of small plates and mains, with prices from £10 to £20. They also offer a set lunch menu with two courses for £15 and three courses for £20.
My Experience
I started with the “Baked Sussex Cheese Fondue,” a comforting and delicious dish served with homemade bread and pickles. For the main course, I chose the “Tagine of Sussex Squash,” a hearty and flavorful stew with apricots, almonds, and spices, served with couscous. The combination of sweet and savory elements made it a delightful and satisfying meal. For dessert, I had the “Sticky Toffee Pudding,” which was moist and rich, topped with a luscious toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream.
Recommendation Index: 4.5/5
Food for Friends is a fantastic choice for those seeking innovative and delicious vegetarian cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Nearby Attractions
The restaurant’s location in the South Lanes made it easy to explore the charming narrow streets filled with boutique shops and historic buildings. I also visited the nearby Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, which offers a diverse collection of art and historical artifacts.
Brighton is a city that offers a wealth of culinary experiences, from traditional British fare to innovative vegetarian dishes and globally inspired cuisine. My journey through these six exceptional dining spots provided not only delicious meals but also insights into the city’s vibrant culture and diverse food scene.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Brighton’s culinary delights are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return for more.
